Overview

“A roast is an event in which an individual is subject to public appropriate comedic insults, praise, outlandish true stories and uplifting tributes. The implication being that the roastee is able to take the jokes in good faith knowing that he is not being seriously criticized or insulted, and therefore showing his good nature. It is considered a great honor to be roasted, as the individual is surrounded by friends who may receive some of the same treatment during the course of the evening.” – Wikipedia

Why.
This is “man time” for both sets of family and friends, of all ages, to get to know each other better. The groom is also given practical home improvement related gifts, and a little fun is had at his expense.

Who.

Planned by the groomsmen

Male family and friends (from both sides) who are also attending the wedding

What.

Open gifts.
Groomsmen keep track of who gave what gift, so the groom can send out a thank you note later

Play games.
This could be: poker, various sports, team building activities, Wii games and/or groom trivia.

Follow the roast rules:

All the groomsmen must prepare a roast (others are optional). Those that prepare a roast should remember that they may receive some of the same treatment in return.

Jokes used in the roast must be suitable for all ages attending

Each roastee must use a combination of comedic insults, praise, at least one outlandish but true story and end with an uplifting tribute

Where.

At the home of one of the groomsmen (roastmaster for the evening), or a third party location chosen by the groomsmen